British Customs uncorks Triumph's big parallel twin

Publish Date:

Dec 1, 2013

By Bruce Steever

GARDENA, Calif. - Custom British twins have been around forever, and with the popularity of the café racer look, modified modern Bonnevilles are easy to find at every bike night. But who’s to say that the Bonneville is the only British twin that earned these sorts of upgrades?

British Customs announced it has scaled up the classic airbox removal modification to match the larger engine and specific needs of Triumph’s big twin, the Thunderbird 1600 and 1700.

As part of the same Induction Series of components, the Thunderbird kit removes the stock airbox and replaces it with open K&N pod-style filters for vastly improved airflow — and a significantly improved engine sound, according to the company.

To make room for the new filter, a compact aluminum battery box is included, and to match the higher intake air flow, the company recommends a DynoJet Power Commander V system.

The kit is finished in a black powdercoat and keeps the K&N filter enclosed to protect it from the elements. With a proper EFI retune and aftermarket exhaust, British Customs claims the airbox kit helps liberate over 12 more horsepower compared to stock, with improved throttle response and efficiency to match.

The Air Box Eliminator for the Thunderbird 1600/1700 retails for $399.95 (before the addition of the Power Commander).